McCain Asks Stevens to Step Down. Palin Tiptoes Through the Muck.

28102008

“It is clear that Senator Stevens has broken his trust with the people and that he should now step down. I hope that my colleagues in the Senate will be spurred by these events to redouble their efforts to end this kind of corruption once and for all.”

So says John McCain in a written statement. He joins ranks with other national Republican leaders in quickly distancing himself from the man who, as a former President Pro Tem of the Senate, was a mere two heartbeats away from the presidency.

Sarah Palin has stopped short of throwing Stevens under the bus. But she did stand there with her arms folded, shaking her head, and watching McCain throw him under the bus. Stevens might view this as “depraved indifference.”

I remember when Palin was running for governor. In the general election, she ran against former two-term Democratic governor (yes, we had one of those once!) Tony Knowles. Whose endorsement helped Palin, a virtual unknown, soar to victory over this battle-tried political veteran? You guessed it – Uncle Ted. It can be argued that Palin’s TV commercials featuring the Stevens endorsement, put her over the top.

To take a quick glance at Palin’s earlier political involvement:

Palin’s name is listed on 2003 incorporation papers of the “Ted Stevens Excellence in Public Service, Inc.,” a 527 group that could raise unlimited funds from corporate donors. The group was designed to serve as a political boot camp for Republican women in the state. She served as one of three directors until June 2005, when her name was replaced on state filings.

So, one might argue that Palin’s political career had its start in the metaphorical living room of a convicted felon.

Remember that Ted Stevens was indicted on the charges for which he now stands convicted back in July of 2007. We knew this was coming. The FBI has a pretty good track record of conviction for Alaska legislators who have crawled in bed with oil services company, Veco. As a matter of fact, that track record is 100%.

Ever since that time, Palin has been trying to negotiate her relationship with Stevens. And he with her. Stevens has endorsed McCain and Palin. She has not endorsed him. Neither has she endorsed Mark Begich, Stevens’ Democratic opponent. Now that the verdict has come down, and Stevens has been found guilty of seven felony counts of failure to disclose gifts and services received from Veco, she has still fallen short of condemning him or asking him to step down.

She’s tiptoeing around the issue by saying:

“This is a sad day for Alaska and for Sen. Stevens and his family. The verdict shines a light on the corrupting influence of the big oil service company that was allowed to control too much of our state. … As governor of the state of Alaska, I will carefully monitor this situation and take any appropriate action as needed. In the meantime, I ask the people of Alaska to join me in respecting the workings of our judicial system. I’m confident Sen. Stevens will do what’s right for the people of Alaska.”

Palin, if she does think there’s a reasonable chance that she will have to step down from her place on the national stage, and return to lowly Alaska, does not want to alienate the significant number of Stevens fans that still abound. And the Republican Party in the State has told everyone that convicted felon status should not affect their vote. So, taking the tough national Republican stand and demanding he step down would be burning a lot of bridges here in Alaska.

There has been some widespread speculation about what Palin will do if Stevens does step down, or if the Senate votes to remove him from his seat. Until recently, Palin would, as Governor, have been able to fill that seat with an appointment. But that is no longer the case.

In another bizarre chapter of Alaskan politics, the Frank Murkowski administration covered that one. Frank Murkowski was Alaska’s junior senator from 1980-2002. He decided to run for Governor, and won. That left, an empty senate seat. What to do….what to do…. Murkowski decided to fill the seat, as he was legally allowed to do at the time, with his daughter, Lisa Murkowski. There was a huge uproar. Cries of nepotism! Furious Democrats! Disgruntled Republicans who were vying for the coveted seat. Nobody was happy.

So, when the next election came, there was a ballot initiative which declared that it should not be legal for Governors to make Senatorial appointments. We had learned from THAT mistake. We’re not THAT stupid….no siree. However, at that very same election, the citizens of Alaska re-elected Lisa Murkowski. No, I have no explanation for that one.

This is one of those stories in which the post-election chapters will be far more fascinating that what’s happening now. Right now the national spotlight is shining on Palin and Stevens. But when the lights click off, the party goers leave, and we’re left with a sink full of dirty dishes and some half-inflated balloons, the true picture will emerge.

Uncle Ted is due back in the state tomorrow….to start campaigning. Let the games begin.

UPDATE:

Well, now, according to the New York Times, Sarah Palin has abandoned her thin veil of neutrality, and her red stiletto-heeled foot has met Ted’s butt. KATHUNK… That was the sound of Stevens getting booted under the Straight Talk Express bus.

“I had hoped Senator Stevens would take the opportunity to do the statesman-like thing and erase the cloud that is covering his Senate seat,” she said in a statement. “Alaskans are grateful for his decades of public service, but the time has come for him to step aside. Even if elected on Tuesday, Senator Stevens should step aside to allow a special election to give Alaskans a real choice of who will serve them in Congress.”

Guess she decided to burn those bridges to nowhere after all. There are many Alaskans who still stand by Stevens, and this will not play well to “the base.” Palin and Murkowski now stand firmly on opposite sides of this issue. I’ll be interested to see how this plays out.

238 responses

If Ted Stevens had any sense of honor, he’d retire and go peacefully into the background noise.

Then again, if he had a sense of honor, he probably wouldn’t be in the position of “Convicted Felon” to begin with.

28102008

mvngfwd(11:59:04) :

Unbelievable!

28102008

fawnskin hussein mudpuppy(11:59:53) :

i’m first….but do have a life

28102008

fawnskin hussein mudpuppy(12:00:16) :

i’m third….still have a life

28102008

Lulu(12:00:25) :

AKM, what a carnival. Or carousel! Or circus! I love what you wrote here, really puts it into perspective as Palin lets Stevens whistle in the wind…her whole political career came from standing on his shoulders….

I saw something where either ABC or CNBC had a new statement from Palin which seemed to throw Stevens under the bus – sort of like going along with McCain. So that would eliminate a loss in this election – seems wise for Republicans – and force a new election, right? In which Palin could run, establishing national credentials – and international – for 2012 – or as one of her supporters shouted at a rally today, “Palin in O’Twelve.” Uh huh -she’s attaracting folks as bright as she is.😉

28102008

Carol(12:06:22) :

There’s talk here and there about Palin running for President in 2012. Even if she were to position herself to try to do so, one could only hope that by the time Obama has been in office for 4 years, the national climate would be such that Palin’s brand of nasty, divisive politics emphasizing the “don’t think, just listen to me” rhetoric would have no receptive audience whatsoever. One can only hope, dream and pray that Obama can bring that about. And he can do that only if we support him.

28102008

Crust Scramble - SouthGA(12:08:04) :

I’m still stunned that he can continue to hold office. Surreal.

28102008

ENOUGHwiththetrainwreck(12:13:53) :

wonder if mccain contacted the RNC to see if they would like a republican to step down? seems like there is a disconnect between mccain and the RNC in the drive to keep as many republican senators as possible?

i still wonder why only 1/4 million in stuff? after such a long time?

guess things like that 2.7 million dollar road from house to restaurant was not part of the perceived goodies……..?

alaska has its work cut out for it ……….wish you hope and courage.

28102008

fawnskin hussein mudpuppy(12:14:27) :

perhaps, this stevens circus will keep us entertained. we all need some relief from our election stress syndrome.

28102008

mvngfwd(12:14:29) :

OT- Just heard from a good friend about his buddy in Coral Springs, FL who caught his Obama sign stealers on hidden camera. Here’s the kicker, it was the local police! He said you can see the patrol car roll up and then the snatchers came up and took his sign, not knowing there was a camera on it. I told him to get me the clip and that we, the mudflat brigade, would get it out to the Universe. If this pans out it will not be a very good day for those patrol officers. I will keep you posted….😉

WOW!!! Yes, if you can get that video, I will post it for sure! And also I’ll make sure it gets out to MSM ASAP! AKM

28102008

fawnskin hussein mudpuppy(12:17:28) :

mvnfwd…you have to get that video of the sign snatching to ko. he’d have a field day with it

28102008

Jenn(12:17:54) :

I love your website. Clearly this is not the first time Palin has thrown someone under the bus. My biggest concern if they were to win (please God no!) is that Palin would throw McCain under the bus in her lust for power.

28102008

TT461(12:18:37) :

Palin quoted in NYTimes:
“I had hoped Senator Stevens would take the opportunity to do the statesman-like thing and erase the cloud that is covering his Senate seat,” she said in a statement. “Alaskans are grateful for his decades of public service, but the time has come for him to step aside. Even if elected on Tuesday, Senator Stevens should step aside to allow a special election to give Alaskans a real choice of who will serve them in Congress.”

28102008

Lurker "That one" Hussein Palin(12:19:00) :

OT
I saw this on Bill Moyers journal http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=_A_ma2h0idk
It was put together buy a guy named Mark Johnson for a documentary
called Playing for change Peace through music. It made me think of Barack.
It’s a version of the song “stand by me” done by musicians all over the world.
It also has the New Mexico Zuni Indians in it. Very moving.

28102008

Pepper1939(12:19:04) :

Palin is looking at Stevens’ job. Who appoints his replacement if he is elected? The POTUS? Just curious. I can see where this could be going. When I read about her “hi-jinks,” I don’t know whether to laugh, cry, or puke.

THOSE SLIMY RNC folks are running a Jeremiah Wright ads! THEY ARE JUST THROWING ANYTHING SLIMY to see what sticks!

Do they have no shame?

28102008

mvngfwd(12:23:06) :

fawnskin- I’m working on it. It really bothers me that it happened and these are the people entrusted with protecting us. Not that stealing a sign is a major offense but they should be held to a much higher standard nonetheless.

Can you serve as a senator from a jail cell? Separately, there’s much more than just talk about Palin in 2012. Just try any combo of “Sarah, Palin, 2012, President” as a domain name, and you’ll find they’re all taken. They all say “under construction” (insert Bridge to Nowhere joke if you like), and two sets of content have been created. Depending on the outcome of the election (which I hope will be on Nov. 4), the appropriate content will go up immediately. I guess no one expects McCain to be available in 2012 to run for president, whether or not the McCain/Palin team wins.

28102008

Goalie(12:24:41) :

@Pepper

When I read about her “hi-jinks,” I don’t know whether to laugh, cry, or puke.

“But when the lights click off, the party goers leave, and we’re left with a sink full of dirty dishes and some half-inflated balloons, the true picture will emerge.”

Oh, I think the party will continue. I’m waiting for the next (high-heeled) shoe to drop in Sarah’s increasingly scandalous collection of “gates.” If a portion of the Palin residence was built with labor and materials supplied by “buddies” who just happened to have benefited from the construction of the Wasilla sports complex, Alaskans just might begin to wonder whether they have a Ted Stevens with lipstick hangin’ around Wasilla.

28102008

Shikago aka Chief Hussein Shikago(12:26:09) :

Let’sGetReal for “That One” (12:21:52) :

THOSE SLIMY RNC folks are running a Jeremiah Wright ads! THEY ARE JUST THROWING ANYTHING SLIMY to see what sticks!

Do they have no shame?
————

No they don’t Let’sGetReal for “That One”, and history will show it. The internal bloodbath and end of the Republican brand.

28102008

CO Almost Native(12:26:16) :

Back on topic: CNN did a piece today that explains Stevens will be able to collect his Senatorial pension even if he goes to prison. His crime of lying is not one of the “deadly sins” listed by Congress that would keep him from collecting a penny…

(I’m shaking my head over this one- although it may be worth it to see him go away)

28102008

knife pile palin(12:27:07) :

love this! you go AKM!

“Palin’s name is listed on 2003 incorporation papers of the “Ted Stevens Excellence in Public Service, Inc.,” a 527 group that could raise unlimited funds from corporate donors. The group was designed to serve as a political boot camp for Republican women in the state. She served as one of three directors until June 2005, when her name was replaced on state filings.

So, one might argue that Palin’s political career had its start in the metaphorical living room of a convicted felon.”

surely we can dig up some good dirt from this connection!

28102008

Goalie(12:27:41) :

This has got to be killing Stevens…

forgive me – but I just wish it would already!

28102008

Deep Blue in VA(12:28:54) :

TalkingPointsMemo has a page up called “The Palin Effect” all about how conservatives are jumping ship. I like to think they picked up on the phrase reading it in the comments here!

Does the RNC have enough time to put a well-known Rep in Stevens position for the senate race? I know that might sound like a dumb comment, but it seems to me with the prospect of GOP seats on the rise, they’d be reluctant to ask one of their own to step aside prior to letting the voters have their say…no matter what the charge is. So, it just makes me wonder if there’s someone who could swoop in under the radar as a GOP stand-in for Stevens. Dumb question, huh? Too conspiracy theory.

Off topic: a big thank you to those of you who ventured over to my blog and left feedback. So many positive vibes. I genuinely appreciate your having taken the time to read and comment. And your comments meant the world. So thank you, thank you for boosting my confidence. Mudpuppies are the greatest! XOXO

28102008

0whole1(12:32:09) :

When’s the next Senate/Congressional seat open in Alaska? In Idaho?

If Palin’s running for President in the future, look for her to seek Senate experience a la Hillary Clinton.

I could be wrong. Pursuing a Senate seat first implies you give a good G-dd-amn about substance, which ain’t the case with Herself.

Can’t wait until the second ethics investigation comes out. Would it cover Steven-esque perks-of-office issues as well (a la but prob not including b/c of the timing her house built by the Wassila sporting center contractor), or solely be about items related to M & W?

28102008

Deep Blue in VA(12:33:20) :

AZ Mom:

I doubt there’s any possibility of putting a replacement in this close to the election. I think it’s probably too late logistically speaking, even if the party were allowed to select someone else. The voting machines/ballots have to be made ready a certain amount of time in advance.

28102008

Ted Powell(12:33:39) :

Kevin fm NYC (12:20:21) :Hi I’m first and I still can’t countSuggestion: Before making a post relating to how many previous comments there are, it’s worth your time to refresh the page. A surprising number of comments can get posted in the time it takes to read an article, and they won’t show until you do a refresh.

28102008

OFFICIALLY(12:34:18) :

ENOUGHwiththetrainwreck (12:13:53) :
i still wonder why only 1/4 million in stuff? after such a long time?
)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Those (7) charges were enough for the FEDS to get the conviction. There is likely much more the FEDS know but with at least 8 more politicians to (under investigation) prosecute bringing more charges against Stevens may have been viewed as counterproductive.

Don Young will be next.

I wonder if there is any truth to the ‘rumor’ that the Feds are now asking questions about the Palin Housegate cover-up?

28102008

dynamo(12:34:32) :

mvngfwd, I have checked internet extensively. cannot find anything about police stealing Obama yard signs or any video of Obama signs being stolen. Please get a link!! Otherwise, just a tall tale.

28102008

Bobg(12:37:13) :

Election’s over!!! Obama had better head home. Joe The Plumber has just endorsed McCain. I was really waiting for his endorsement before making up my mind. LOL

28102008

WV Democrat(12:38:00) :

That video in Pottsville is indeed disturbing. It’s surreal the hate that the McCain/Palin ticket brings out in their supporters. All the more reason for Obama/Biden to win. Go vote!

28102008

knife pile palin(12:39:55) :

well folks, this is exactly the type of thing that needs changing! grrrr, while doing his gov job, found guilty and going to jail as a felon should dang well void/null any pension pay, well I can understand he was still “doing” his job.

I guess my point is we need controls and penalties in place to prevent and make people desire to stay clean and serve with integrity, not that it “should have to be” but apparently so. Just like tighter regulations on wall street to prevent corruption. But thieves always seem to find a way. It’s hard to get inside that evil mindset if you don’t have it.

CO Almost Native (12:26:16) :
Back on topic: CNN did a piece today that explains Stevens will be able to collect his Senatorial pension even if he goes to prison. His crime of lying is not one of the “deadly sins” listed by Congress that would keep him from collecting a penny…

28102008

Lurker "That one" Hussein Palin(12:40:28) :

dynamo (12:34:32) :

mvngfwd, I have checked internet extensively. cannot find anything about police stealing Obama yard signs or any video of Obama signs being stolen. Please get a link!! Otherwise, just a tall tale.

Not even for a “write-in” campaign? I don’t mean to be dense. I just can’t see why, when the GOP stands to lose so much this election, they aren’t at least ready with a wingman? NOT that I WANT to see them keep their seats! I’m ALL FOR BUSTING THE FILLABUSTER! But it’s just not very strategic for the party. They knew this trial was going on. They knew they stood a 50/50 chance of seeing Stevens covicted. And to NOT have someone out there….well, it just doesn’t seem smart. Unless….AG Talis Colberg? I mean, maybe Palin floats him a solid? Gets her out of that Native issue, if she replaces him on the subcabinet.

Yeah, I’ve watched WAY too many conspiracy flicks.🙂 It’s fun to play party strategist, though! Far better than doing laundry and scooping the cat box.

Godfather Ted set a precedence on his last minute nod to Palin in the guber race against Tony Knowles. Palin then followed suit with her ‘taking off her governor’s hat’ and said she would vote no against a Clean Water Initiative that would have helped prevent the nightmarish Pebble Mine from sailing through the permitting process. She did this days before the vote of all Alaskans. The initiative failed.

We now know Todd and Sarah Palin have been successfully lobbied by the mining industry and have positioned/appointed pro-mining staffers to accomplish the destruction of Bristol Bay and the largest wild salmon runs in the world all for non-renewable resources.

Much like the corrupt Alaskan republicans, Sarah Palin’s view of her world is simple and scary. She is the center of her universe. She is the Sun. She is the One. Do not let her fool you for you will be sucked into her black hole. Drill baby drill. Mine baby mine. There is no forethought in her backwoods brain. No contemplation on her actions towards her children or her grandchildren let alone Alaskans and Americans.

Interesting that Palin wants Uncle Ted to step aside “even if he’s elected” so a special election can be held. If he steps aside now, clearly we have a Democrat, However, if he runs and wins, and THEN steps aside we could have a Republican.

28102008

Bobg(12:51:35) :

Fox News just threw Nicole Watts under the bus for Palin’s clothes. Said that she bought the clothes without authorization. Sure, Palin didn’t have a thing to do with it. The RNC hasn’t issued a rebuttal yet.

28102008

Deep Blue in VA(12:51:43) :

fawnskin – thanks for the laugh!

Did you all read about one of the latest dirty tricks in Virginia? Some group is sending around flyers saying the General Assembly decided to extend voting, and that Republicans are supposed to vote on the 4th and Democrats on the 5th.

I feel certain MOST of my fellow Dems in the Commonwealth are smart enough to not fall for that.

Everyone! Barack Obama has posted all of us an important message on his youtube site.

DON’T LET UP!

28102008

CO Almost Native(12:53:52) :

Lurker-

Thanks, thanks for the link to the Playing for Change clip; what a breath of fresh air! Just what I needed:)

28102008

futurexpat?(12:54:52) :

We can only hope that Begich wins the election on Tuesday. This would solve many problems. Stevens is so popular up there that I think a lot of Republicans will vote for him, conviction or not. Maybe the fact that many have become fed up with Palin will help defeat him. I agree he will only go kicking and screaming.

28102008

Road Runner(12:56:53) :

The lastest I just saw on Huffinton Post, the cnbc, the McCain campaign is only allowing 5 minutes interview. Palin 0-12 can’t hog the time.

28102008

C.Rock(12:58:24) :

OT:
Iam sooo ticked off I could puke. I just heard on CNN that Robo calls were going around saying Vote on Nov 5th for Dems & Nov 4th for those slime buckets Repugs. So sick of JM/SP dirty tricks.

28102008

Road Runner(12:59:30) :

Heard on the new today, the thrift store in alaska has been issued a “cease and desist” to stop using the name. It seems a non-profit in Alaska has the copyright name. Now Palin 0-12 has put the small business owner in a predicament.

28102008

mvngfwd(12:59:58) :

Okay, I just got a text back from my friend about the sign snatchers. He said his friend send it to the Obama headquarters and is going to get a copy of it on disc. The file is a 40mb video file so he can’t email it over. As soon as he has the disc I will happily share it with all of you. The description is: Patrol car passes through several times, and then someone who has been spotted around several times and has been id’d as a cop/works with cops was the one in the yard stealing the sign. So it looked as if the patrol car was checking the neighborhood first before dropping this guy off to steal the sign. Those that saw the “Obamasignwatch” from our mudpals in Oregon can visualize this based on that experience. I will keep you all posted….

On another topic- I just heard that Gov Crist has extended the Early Voting in Florida to 12 hours per day due to the huge turnout!!!! Okay, not saying it was because of my little crusade with the help of my mudpals calling but….It worked!!! Thanks to all who called the Gov’s office!

28102008

Road Runner(13:01:13) :

Sorry I should have said a non-profit in San Diego has the copyright to the name

Palin was wrapping up her last term as mayor of Wasilla. She had higher political aspirations. She wanted the second-most powerful job in Alaska: lieutenant governor. In those days, there was virtually only one road to the state capital, and it passed through Allen. A foul-mouthed oilman, a high-school drop out, the son of fruit pickers, Allen was one of those “good ol’ boys” who Palin touted taking on in Alaska when she gave her vice-presidential speech last night at the National Republican Convention.

Allen, then in his mid-60s, shaped Alaska politics through campaign contributions and sometimes flat-out bribes. He and his VECO executives, employees and family members gave hundreds of thousands of dollars to both Republicans and Democrats, lawmakers Allen believed would support the oil industry. He was so steeped in politics that he co-chaired the Alaska finance committee during the Bush-Cheney 2000 campaign.

A year later, a young hometown mayor was on his doorstep.

Palin sat with Allen in his den and sipped wine, according to a former VECO employee who says he personally fetched the bottle of wine for the two. The worker asked that his name not be printed because of the sensitivity of the matter. It’s unclear why Palin was hanging with Allen; the governor’s spokesman, Bill McAllister, refused to ask her. “This is a silly story and I’m not going to take any more time with this. Goodbye,” said McAllister, hanging up on a reporter.

Whatever the case, after Palin and Allen met, VECO contributed $5,000 to Palin’s campaign for lieutenant governor. The contributions came at $500 a pop over a two-day period in late December from Allen, his executives and a couple of their spouses, representing 10 percent of all money Palin raised in her 2002 campaign.

Unlike Obama, Palin really did start her career in a scumbag’s living room.

I also still don’t get why they are pressuring Stevens to resign right now and why is Palin touting a ‘special’ election? But here is my take. I think they are counting on Stevens winning the election and then resigning.

If they don’t pressure Stevens to resign many Alaskans may have second thoughts about actually voting for a convicted felon. However, they may be swayed by the promise that a special election will be held and they can replace him with another Republican.

Only thing that makes sense. No way they can hold a special election between now and Tuesday.

Palin IS throwing Stevens under the bus. If there is one thing you can say about Sarah Palin is she knows when to jump off the bus and turn on those who drove the bus. She is turning on McCain now and she is turning on Stevens.

I think she plays a very dangerous game. One of these days she is going to turn on the wrong person.

28102008

BigPete(13:02:18) :

Palin has already burned all here bridges with the RNC. Her Cinderella moment has been over for a while. For her to run in 2012 it would have to be an insurgent, outsider campaign similar to that of Gov. Huckabee. However Huckabee’s campaign showed that you can only go so far, if your only constituency is bible-thumpers and red necks.

28102008

asianHusseingrrl"that one"MN(13:03:13) :

Before I read comments, I just want to give a shout-out to Chief Hussein Shikago and Bobg that I have posts to you on the last thread. In addition, I went off the rails in my desire to reclaim socialism.

Back to your regularly scheduled program.

28102008

responsiblecitizen08(13:03:32) :

CO Almost Native (12:26:16) :
As a taxpayer, that really makes me angry. It is common practice that our convicted officals get to keep their healthcare and pension benefits when they use their elected offices to abuse power for their gain. It is shameful and I wish that we would not be burdened with the expense of paying for our corrupt officials long after they have been put out of office.

28102008

Tess In TX(13:04:31) :

per Politico:

GOP Senate leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky was a congressional intern in 1964, when Stevens was planning his first run for the Senate. McConnell can’t and won’t ask a legend to resign, at least at this point.

The Senate ethics committee says it won’t do anything until the criminal case runs it course.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) has left the ball in McConnell’s court, saying it’s “all up to [Republicans]” to decide how to handle Stevens.

The conservative National Review called for Stevens’ resignation. Democrats across the country called on their Republican opponents to return Stevens’ campaign contributions. Illinois Rep. Mark Kirk, a Republican, used Stevens’ indictment to demand passage of legislation that would deny congressional pensions to members convicted of felonies.
_______________________
Since I’m from a “Red State” (insert grumble here) I think it’s time to write Kay Baily Hutchison & John Cornyn and let them know how I feel about a convicted felon serving in the Senate and urge them to call for Stevens resignation. Hey, letters worked in Alaska, perhaps they’ll work in Texas too! I can’t help but think if legislators felt a little pressure from constituents, that it might make an impact.

I think it’s only fitting to make the Republicans decide his fate. Most of the country seems to want his ouster and what will it say about these Republican Senators to not listen to their constituency. For those in red states, write your senators as well!

As for Palin, it’s a toss up which is bigger, her ego or her ambition. I have yet to hear out of her own mouth that Stevens should resign. Instead, it came from an aid or from McCain. It just isn’t the same thing. I know she doesn’t want to burn any bridges back in Alaska (not even the one to “nowhere”) but, she still has repercussions from the findings of the Legislative findings, findings pending from the Personnel Board yet to come and at least one more “Gate”(House) yet to come. I’m also wondering what information, if any, Uncle Teddy might have concerning Gov. Palin.

I can only think that her involvement in national politics will further deepen a widening chasm within the Republican camp. I’m not complaining mind you, but it’s clear she doesn’t have her country, her party, or her state first…only herself.

AKM, as always, thanks for keeping us posted on all things political in AK!

Glad to hear that Palin 0-12 can’t appoint herself to the Senatorial post if Stevens is elected and gets his jail term. But, can the Legislature overturn the people? Look at what they did in New York mayoral race – overturned the the voters to allow them to run for a third term.

28102008

Goalie Sanka in NM(13:10:34) :

I love that Nicole Watts (such a smug little gal) is being outed re: clothesgate.

uh, Also!

28102008

Ripley AKA Copper Hussein Catfish in CT(13:12:57) :

I had heard this early here on the East Coast, but didn’t have time at work to post anything about it. Damned job!! KIDDING!!

This whole thing looks the start of a winner take all game of good cop vs bad cop to me.

You folks up in Alaska need to keep an arms length perspective on this, and see what the Uncle Ted, and Queen Sarahs’ game turns into. It may actually turn out a little uglier than they planned.

28102008

kate aka chin duststrap(13:29:34) :

I’m sure Palin didn’t have a choice in this. Since she’s been goin’ rogue, so somebody has tried to pull her back in line with McCain.

Hope Begich wins.

28102008

Lighthouse (Sport Grunt Hussein)(13:30:36) :

Shikago:

You’re bringing tears to my eyes, again. You are welcome.

Asiangrrl:

I very much enjoyed your rant about socialism on the last thread. People just don’t get it.

28102008

asianHusseingrrl"that one"MN(13:31:15) :

To put it bluntly, we need to hold our congress and the rest of our elected officials to the same standards as we do the rest of the citizenry, if not higher. I understand why we might want to safeguard against one party bullrushing a member of the other party into jail, but we also have to make sure our elected officials work for us.

I am not for an age limit, necessarily, but we do have a lower limit for president at least. Why can’t we consider an upper limit as well? The idea of term limits was tossed around as well, and I am ambivalent about them. I do believe in the people’s right to choose, but as one Mudflatter so astutely pointed out (sorry, name escapes me), it’s much easier for incumbents to win than for the challengers. I think we need to drastically cut the amount of money and time involved in campaigning (because really, right now, are Obama and McCain really doing the jobs they were elected to do?) to really make it less ‘elitist’.

As for Ted Stevens, enough already, Ted. You are no longer invincible. Accept it and move on with your life.

28102008

Rapture Spenard Palin(13:34:11) :

I have been a news junkie this week, workin’ that remote hard. One thing I’ve noticed today, since the Stevens verdict had a chance to work its magic. EVERYBODY has something nasty to say about Stevens. They are ALL throwing him under the bus. BEFORE the verdict they were all still too scared of him, but now he’s been marked, so everybody is piling on. Just wondering if there was a huge backlog of anger toward him that couldn’t be expressed due to his power and seniority, or if this is just part of the hyena-fest going on this week in the political arena.

28102008

Katlen(13:35:29) :

Is Palin afraid that folks will start asking serious questions about exactly who Todd’s contractor “buddies” were who built their new house? How they paid for it and stuff?

28102008

Ripley AKA Copper Hussein Catfish in CT(13:36:16) :

this is off topic…

you have to watch this video. It’s great. Make sure to watch it to the end.

28102008

Deejay(13:36:51) :

Palin taking Steven’s place? Doesn’t Alaska want an improvement?

28102008

eajphd Molten Contra Palin(13:39:22) :

It’s interesting that she still hasn’t said he did anything wrong. Her appeal to statesmanship is very generic. It looks more like she is trying to reconcile the state and national parties rather than deal with the real significance of his conviction to cleaning up politics in Alaska. The voice of “true reformer” indeed. At least you’d think she would express some dismay and disappointment that things have come to this.

Hold on now….McCain is more tied to this guy than Obama. I don’t think Obama had anything to d with this guy getting nearly a 1/2 million dollar in grant money, where as McCain was. Sure, bring it up, and let’s talk about that issue. Obama went to a going away party, McCain funds this guy. So, neither is wrong in and of itself. But, since we are talking about it, let’s indeed talk about it.

I’m very concerned by this. I’m surprised the MSM isn’t all over it and investigating it. I’d like answers. Everything I’ve Googled suggests a relationship between Obama and Khalidi that worries me. Of course, everything I found is on conservative blogs, so I don’t know what to believe.

This is the first election in my life that I’m emotionally invested in a candiate’s win. I believe in Obama and I believe in his vision for America. I’ve made donations to the campaign and called voters in swing states. I’ve never been this committed to a candidate and I hate that I have questions so close to the election. This alleged relationship is worth knowing more about.

Obama’s site addresses it, but not in a way that’s entirely satisfying. I need more answers. It won’t change my vote, but it could change my enthusiasm and I would hate for that to happen.

28102008

InJuneau aka Wrangler Tractor That One Hussein(13:48:05) :

@Pepper1939 (12:19:04) :

NO MORE APPOINTMENTS. Right up there in AKM’s post, it’s noted that in 2004 we enacted a law that says that we have to have a special election.

@Road Runner (13:08:04) :

The Legislature had actually passed a somewhat similar bill earlier in 2004 I think, but the ballot initiative just strengthed it further. I don’t think there’s any chance they would undo this one (unlike many other voter initiatives they have undone), esp. not now.

28102008

DeMo(13:53:01) :

Regarding McCain and Khalidid, this is reassuring, but still doesn’t answer questions about Obama and Khalidi.

Scary that Obama would attend going away party for colleague? No.
Scary that McCain could succeed in distorting this? Yes.

Then it’s time to roll out the connections McC has to Liddy and Palin to secessionists (for example).

28102008

Shutterbuggery(13:59:20) :

Dress Stevens up in a wolf pelt and toss him off in a snowbank. Lets see how long he lasts until the whumpwhumpwhump of a helicopter hunter comes looking for his right forepaw.

28102008

Let'sGetReal for "That One"(14:00:05) :

DeMo (13:43:12) :

Blue Idaho (12:49:07) said:

This is a bit scary.

I’m very concerned by this. I’m surprised the MSM isn’t all over it and investigating it. I’d like answers. Everything I’ve Googled suggests a relationship between Obama and Khalidi that worries me. Of course, everything I found is on conservative blogs, so I don’t know what to believe.

—————-

It has no substance! I’m sure Obama wasn’t the only one who attended a going away party.

If Obama was white, would this be all over the internet? No it wouldn’t! This is just the slime trying to scare voters into voting for the rethugs!

John McShame and Scarah have been palling around with scarier people, but the MSM are not delving into their associations! Not deep anyway!

28102008

WV Democrat(14:01:21) :

The video you are talking about is from a party where a PROFESSOR is leaving. Obama attended. So what if Obama had a Palestinian for a friend. I’ve had Arab friends. I’ll never forget one of them — Sammi. In college, we couldn’t pronounce his name so he told us to call him Sammi. Sammi came from a uber rich oil family and in our group was one really smart Jewish guy named Ira. When Sammi graduated, he invited all of us to visit him and then sadly turned to Ira and said, “I’m so sorry, my friend, but you cannot come. My father would kill you.” He wasn’t kidding. Anyone can have friends without it clouding what they believe or what they would do. Just because Obama is friends with a Palestinian is no reason to doubt him. This “pallin’ around” shit has to stop.

28102008

UK Lady Turning Turtle Annette AKA UK Lady(14:01:55) :

IMHO Palin was forced to dump Uncle, even Rove would have told her she must. Uncle won’t be happy, If he is the sort of pol I think, I would expect him to have insured himself with some dirt on Sarahahaha! This almost certainly will get ugly.

28102008

WV Democrat(14:02:49) :

The video you are talking about is from a party where a PROFESSOR friend is leaving. Obama attended. So what if Obama had a Palestinian for a friend. I’ve had Arab friends. I’ll never forget one of them — Sammi. In college, we couldn’t pronounce his name so he told us to call him Sammi. Sammi came from a uber rich oil family and in our group was one really smart Jewish guy named Ira. When Sammi graduated, he invited all of us to visit him and then sadly turned to Ira and said, “I’m so sorry, my friend, but you cannot come. My father would kill you.” He wasn’t kidding. Anyone can have friends without it clouding what they believe or what they would do. Just because Obama is friends with a Palestinian is no reason to doubt him. This “pallin’ around” shit has to stop.

28102008

Bobg(14:03:10) :

What about when McCain met with Pinochet on a friend’s farm but refused to meet with the democratically elected government?

Gazprom has made a proposal to BP PLC and ConocoPhillips, which in April submitted a bid to build a multibillion-dollar pipeline that would carry natural gas from Alaska’s North Slope to the lower 48 U.S. states, Gazprom director Alexei Miller said.

“Gazprom has unique experience, knowledge and modern technology and is the most advanced company in the world in the realm of gas transport in trunk pipelines,” Miller told an international business forum in St. Petersburg, Russia. “So participation in such a large-scale project as the construction of a pipeline from Alaska is interesting for us.”

28102008

knife pile palin(14:12:10) :

I am personally going to hold Palin, McCain and the republican party responsible if ANYTHING in the way of physical harm towards happens to Obama or family, because of their dam* tactics in this campaign. Which is exactly what they seem to be doing, but hell, they’ll point the blame at the perpetrator.

This has got to stop, it’s already gone too far.

I am disgusted with the republican party and embarrassed for our country! What a poor display of adult political behavior, for all or nation and all the world to be watching this crap! The worst of the worst behavior. I can’t believe it.

Shame on you John McCain, Sarah Palin and the Republican Party!

I did call and chew out program manager, then also sent several stinging emails to the higher ups at our local tv station KY3 (Springfield) right after they aired the campaign worker attack hoax story on the 10 pm news last Friday night. It was before it was found to be a hoax, they jumped on it, not sure what affiliate they are ABC?. For one thing I’d read the druge report and this news piece was slanted, for another it upset me how careless they were being with the hate theme. I pleaded, then demanded as a viewer that they be responsible and careful, that we don’t want people being incited to hurt others.

I am a transplant here in red neck bible thumping MO country, been here 3 yrs now and believe me coming from CO a much more progressive state people wouldn’t believe how behind the times and narrow minded, set in there ways some of the rural people are, and there’s a lot of rural, lol. I have red flags going up all the time.

The closest town is Repub run forever. I live 15 miles out and probably run a risk with my Obama signs which I bring in every night. It’s dark out there, lol.

Churches every mile or so in every direction, they love their guns, hunting everything from rabbits to turkey, don’t take to outsiders, don’t want anyone getting in their business and don’t like change! They build their own homes as they see fit, no county building codes yet if you can believe that. Buyer beware! There are lots of shootings, stabbings, disappearances, family feuds, child abuse, wife abuse, drinking and driving, burglary, MO is the meth capital of the US. Lots of low income families with factory jobs.

The positive thing I see are the changes transplants (new comers) are helping effect. A non smoking section at a local restaraunt was 3 tables under a fan and the rest is smoking, lol, no recycling, no landfills! people burn or dump on their properties, tons smokers and fast food chains now 3 yrs later we have several non smoking res and recycling we still have to pay full price for the local paper that is delivered the next day, .50 for 10 pages of ads and church happenings, lol. The high price of metal salvage has people taking 1000’s of truck loads of old cars and property junk to sell, yahoo!

Things do change, I believe that, but it takes time and good people willing to care and help make it happen. I’m working on my across the road neighbor, a rural life long resident who has never traveled further than 100 miles, not once out of state, he has no real experience other than his immediate world and tv. Quite interesting, lol. I believe he is going to vote for Obama!

I am so mad at the repub party last Friday I voted a strait democratic ticket and left unchecked any unchallenged rep vote but shoot I should have written in myself, lol. Spouse and I voted directly at the county clerks office, paper ballot sealed in an envelope so unless the box is stolen or dirty employees they should count for this tied state. I voted early I didn’t want ANYTHING to get in the way of my vote.

CBS News columnist Ari Berman challenged “smears” like this all the way back in March, responding to early talk of Khalidi’s relationship with Obama by WorldNetDaily Jerusalem correspondent Aaron Klein (about Klein’s employer, Berman says it’s “a sort of National Enquirer for the right.”):

Klein penned two stories in late February wildly distorting Obama’s links, from his days in Chicago, to pro-Palestinian activists like Rashid Khalidi, a respected professor of Middle East studies at Columbia University who previously taught at the University of Chicago (hardly a bastion of left-wing activism). Klein’s story goes something like this: Obama sat on the board of a foundation in Chicago that gave a grant to the Arab American Action Network (AAAN), run by Khalidi’s wife, which supposedly rejects Israel’s existence; and Khalidi directed the PLO’s Beirut press office and is a supporter “for Palestinian terror.” (In fact, the AAAN focuses solely on social service work in Chicago and takes no position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Khalidi says he was never employed by the PLO; he has been a harsh critic of Palestinian suicide bombings and a longtime supporter of a two-state solution, and he has never been an adviser to Obama. As for Obama’s past statements, at least in Chicago, being pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian is not a contradiction in terms.)

Obama, for his part, has cautiously distanced himself from Khalidi without dismissing the scholar’s distinguished career — first at the University of Chicago and today at Columbia University. “He is not one of my advisors. He is not one of my foreign policy people,” Obama has said. “He is a respected scholar although he vehemently disagrees with a lot of Israel policy.”

So far McCain has not uttered Khalidi’s name — but he’s just getting started on Ayers. There is no question he’s being baited by the conservative media. Will he take the bait?

28102008

gary aka khaki salmon palin(14:13:38) :

InJuneau aka Wrangler Tractor That One Hussein (14:08:13) :

I’m pretty sure she’s not in the loop.

OK — but isn’t she supposed to be both Ms. Energy and Ms. ‘I understand Russia’?

28102008

Bobg(14:17:14) :

Sarah Palin says that we must drill Anwar. We presently export 1.048 million gallons of crude per day which is 12% of US domestic production.

28102008

austintx(14:18:02) :

Poodle is sailing a leakey boat on the ocean of illusion if she thinks she is gonna be a player in the GOP……..she will get stomped by Romney, Pawlenty , et al. Revenge and money(greed) are the 2 biggest motivators for the GOP…….is she gonna run under AIP….NOT!! …….she is on borrowed time…….. also VECO donated heavily when she ran for Gov……she is coming home to a vipers nest !!! ……..also…can a felon run for POTUS ????

28102008

Shove Maggot "That One" Hussein aka the problem child(14:21:35) :

OT, I’m sure, but funny David Sedaris, in the New York “Undecided” article makes the following comment about undecided voters:

To put them in perspective, I think of being on an airplane. The flight attendant comes down the aisle with her food cart and, eventually parks it beside my seat. “Can I interest you in the chicken?” she asks. “Or would you prefer the platter of shit with bits of broken glass in it?”

To be undecided in this election is to pause for a moment and then ask how the chicken is cooked.

28102008

Lulu(14:21:50) :

WV Democrat (14:02:49) wrote:
“The video you are talking about is from a party where a PROFESSOR friend is leaving. Obama attended. So what if Obama had a Palestinian for a friend. I’ve had Arab friends. I’ll never forget one of them — Sammi. In college, we couldn’t pronounce his name so he told us to call him Sammi. Sammi came from a uber rich oil family and in our group was one really smart Jewish guy named Ira. When Sammi graduated, he invited all of us to visit him and then sadly turned to Ira and said, “I’m so sorry, my friend, but you cannot come. My father would kill you.” He wasn’t kidding. Anyone can have friends without it clouding what they believe or what they would do. Just because Obama is friends with a Palestinian is no reason to doubt him. This “pallin’ around” shit has to stop.”

I’m glad you had an Arab friend. Believe it or not, Mudflatters, there might even be Arab-Americans who read and post here regularly… 🙂
They type among you freely, you know, the way Americans are prone to do.

28102008

ds55(14:21:56) :

Reuters article says “Men rated a woman shown in photographs as more sexually attractive if she was wearing red clothing or if she was shown in an image framed by a red border rather than some other color, U.S. researchers said Tuesday.”

Sarah may be sitting pretty.
She will either be the VP or if Begich doesn’t win, she can run for governor and get all that experience and run for president in 12.

Please do something Alaskan’s you may be our only hope!!!!!!!!

28102008

Big Al from Las Vegas(14:28:47) :

Newsflash!

For the fourth installment of the movie franchise X-Men entitled “X-Men 4: Mavericks Down!,” George Bush has agreed to play William Stryker, the.Christian fundamentalist politician who sees himself on a mission from God to destroy the mutant race through economic catastrophe. Stryker is teamed up with his sidekick Karl Rove who plays himself.

The good mutants are led by Wolverine played by the optimistic Joe Biden and the beautiful Storm played by Halle Berry (who is just too hot to be replaced by a career politician).

The militant mutants are led by cynical leader Magneto played by Ralph Nader.

As reported earlier, Governor Sarah Palin will replace Anna Paquin as the character Rogue. However, Sarah Palin’s character Rogue will no longer reunite with love interest Iceman played by Senator John McCain. Instead, Palin has asked for a rewrite of the script in which she “acts” to fall in love with a business associate of her husband Todd Palin.

Barack Obama will be the voice of the ghost of paraplegic telepath Professor Charles Xavier.

Off topic (again!): has anyone seen the CNBC interview with Maria Bartiromo? McCain looks over at Palin (while she’s talking) with a look that sort of suggests he’s thinking, “Okay. Stop talking now. NOW! Just sshhh!”

28102008

UK Lady Turning Turtle Annette AKA UK Lady(14:29:40) :

Please, please watch this, short vid, it will go viral I’m sure, get out the kleenex and meet Charles Alexander!

I posted this video on my blog…and I totally CRIED! thank you for posting it here. God love these Mudpeeps! Can we get shirts? Anyone? Maybe get that consignment shop in AK to carry them? They might need a bit of business now that they’ve got to rebrand themselves…so shirts? Anyone?

I’m very concerned by this. I’m surprised the MSM isn’t all over it and investigating it. I’d like answers. Everything I’ve Googled suggests a relationship between Obama and Khalidi that worries me. Of course, everything I found is on conservative blogs, so I don’t know what to believe.
___________

I’ll go back and find the article (think it was on huffpo) but McCain has ties to Khalidi as well. He was on a committee that gave money to Khalidi’s organization. Guess he didn’t think he was such a shady character then, huh?

that video is repulsive…wonder if the FBI or the Secret Service is investigating that guy who at the start was calling for “Bomb Obama”…but what a beautiful difference between the two tickets – McCain all nasty supporters, spewing hate and ignorance, Obama supporters peacefully demonstrating, no foul language, no calls for violence against anyone.

28102008

Bobg(14:53:38) :

Watching Hardball-What is going on with this McCain campaign? Haven’t they ever run a campaign before? Tomorrow Palin is giving her energy policy speech. What???? What happened to McCain? Doesn’t she know that she is supposed to support the top of the ticket? A RNC spokeswoman said that people are coming out to see Palin more than McCain. What???? The VP nominee should always ensure that she is viewed as #2 and that she supports #1. McCain also said in an interview that he and Palin have differences in philosophy but he embraces that. What???? That might be but you never let it get out. You try to put a united front out to the public. I have seen Palin disagree with McCain in interviews. What???? #2 never does that!!! I’m beginning to believe those that say she is starting her 2012 campaign.

The video you are talking about is from a party where a PROFESSOR is leaving. Obama attended. So what if Obama had a Palestinian for a friend. I’ve had Arab friends.
*******
Sorry about the cut & paste link… from another thread.

This is about Obama’s time as pres of the Harvard Review. I think this tells best about Obama’s associations with people both like him and different from him–and why he will make such a fine president: he puts principle above relationships or ideology. Plain and simple. The fact that he is a constitutional scholar coming on the heels of a president who would have gleefully shredded the constitution gives me great comfort. I look at his variety of associations as being the result of intelletual curiosity and geniune caring about other people. How refreshing is that?!

Every now and then I have these moments of “OMG! What DO we really know about this man’s character?” And then I read a piece like this, or hear about him taking time to talk to a reporter about a philosopher and the problem of power corrupting and his deep awareness of the problem (many, many threads ago), and I relax and think to myself, “This is a man who is solid and self-aware and principled to his core.” Then I relax, and pray for his safety.

So much for getting any work done…

28102008

WV Democrat(15:01:00) :

@ Lulu (14:21:50) :

I’m glad you had an Arab friend. Believe it or not, Mudflatters, there might even be Arab-Americans who read and post here regularly…🙂
They type among you freely, you know, the way Americans are prone to do.

———————————————————————
I’d believe it. We are all sisters and brothers are we not? Doggone it, I’ve even got a lot of redneck friends. Shoot the guys my hubby hangs out with at the local tavern have a collective IQ of 100!! They don’t type much on the internet though… too busy looking at bucks with trophy racks…or porn.🙂

28102008

Lulu(15:02:50) :

I agree with all of you commenting on the Pottsville, PA video, posted also on Andrew Sullivan. I made myself watch it. It’s devastating to see these horrible people so full of hate and violence. And McCain/Palin refuse to take responsibility for fanning the flames of hatred.

I am so saddened to see that this is the new face of the Republican party. Heartbreaking. I agree with other posters who said that as liberals, we are better served by a legitimate opposition party in a two-party democratic system. But these people on camera, no. They might as well be going to KKK meetings.

28102008

SMR(15:04:22) :

OFF TOPIC

Chief — Had to go back to read your post and see what that was all about. Wow. Thanks for sharing, thank you for feeling that we are worthy of your story.

My thoughts are with you. I hope that it gets better as times goes by.

Our girls are almost 15 years apart. When our little “miracle baby” was born it was quite an life-changer for us, you know, able to see life ahead without a kid in the house, what will we do, then you get this little amazing baby and it starts all over. As old as we were then (and older now!), we had a very real appreciation for the fact that every single day is so very very precious. Lottie was not the easy baby that her big sis was, but every time she woke me at 3 a.m. (until she was about a year old!), I would kiss her & cuddle her & think how amazing & wonderful it was, how lucky we were, so blessed. There was, from the first moment, a feeling of how lucky we were to have each & every day with her. So, at about a month old I decided, since you just never know how life will work out, that we would keep a journal for her, telling her our feelings about her growing, what she’s learning, how she’s changing — my husband and I both write in it from time to time (not as often as we should). I really really wanted her to know, should the worst happen, and either my husband or I not be around when she’s grown, how much we love her, what she brings to our lives. There is just no way to explain to your children how they fill your heart, how much you love them — words are not adequate.

Every day with the people we love — children or spouse or family or friends — is precious. Again, thanks for sharing, and my thoughts are with you.

oooooooooooooooooooo

28102008

fawnskin hussein mudpuppy(15:04:32) :

any mudpuppies from cleveland or virginia here ?

28102008

Lulu(15:04:32) :

@WV Democrat, you sound like you are very popular! You have so many friends!🙂

McCain’s links. Also, the Bush administration has been one-sided ‘to the extreme’ when it comes to the Israeli-Palestinian situation. Hardly an honest or an impartial peace-broker. The Palestinians have been royally shat upon thanks to the Bush administration who seem to cater more to the settlement-building and expanding Israelis than they do to their own American citizens, sending Israel $10 million per day, every day, every year.

The time is long past for a truly honest and impartial broker. The establishment of Israel, coupled with the CIA overthrow of the one DEMOCRATICLY elected leader in the Middle East (Mossedegh of Iran, who was overthrown by the CIA in 1953 and replaced by the brutal thug the Shah of Iran), have completely destabilized the area now for well over half a century and all the chickens have now come home to roost. The time has come to build bridges (to somewhere) and to get along. If one needs to use weaponry to get one’s way, then one has failed at the art of civilized communication and is doomed to creating ever-new enemies. I think Mr. Obama knows this and is, fortunately, terrifically intelligent and worldly-wise, unlike his predecessor who was hopelessly out of his element and just a spoiled frat-boy playing at running a ‘business’ (something in which he has yet to succeed ).

28102008

ENOUGHwiththetrainwreck(15:08:16) :

i just ran to the bottom of the comments to post this — abcblog about all the people palin left in her wake on the mad dash to national stage – and the reporter warning mccain camp that they are next………sheesh we knew this like so “last month” thanks to AKM !!!

Well It looks like the republican ship is truly sinking. The slow leak has turned into a massive hole. Everyone who can is bailing out not really caring who they step on. I guess we will have to through them some life rafts. LOL🙂 but not until Nov 5th. LOL

28102008

Denise ThatOneFromMSgaAZca(15:13:46) :

Hello AKM. I won’t make it to the forum today, but just want to thank you for all you do. I check my email and then I check Mudflats. You’re part of my daily routine. To be savored like a good cup of coffee.

28102008

Trini(15:15:24) :

My last comment was tossed. I’ll repeat. SWWNBN’s comments seem to be a temporary endorsement of Stevens. The message is that after the election, he should step down and then a special election could be held to put a repug in place. One who supports her.

OT: McCain may have a reason for not releasing his medical records, or, how ’bout it, his military records!
The car accident that could become a train wreck:

ENOUGHwiththetrainwreck (15:08:16) I saw that also…. and true, because of the flash of news through AKM’s blog, that information is so 5 minutes ago!

28102008

Lighthouse (Sport Grunt Hussein)(15:20:05) :

I love all this news that is so positive for our side (bad for the McCain camp). But I have to admit that I’d be happier if the negative stuff about Barack Obama would just go away!

My fingers are exhausted from sending people to see what’s been verified about Barack Obama: snopes.com, thetruthfightsback.com, factcheck.org, and of course, Barack Obama’s website.

I can’t wait till next Wednesday!

28102008

prettybrowntee(15:23:36) :

prettybrowntee (15:11:48) :

Well It looks like the republican ship is truly sinking. The slow leak has turned into a massive hole. Everyone who can is bailing out not really caring who they step on. I guess we will have to ——- them some life rafts. LOL🙂 but not until Nov 5th. LOL

OOOPs I meant throw LOL

28102008

Ecks(15:25:30) :

Palin just realized that she had to do this or she’d be facing years of political ads saying “A reformer? Palin endorsed a convicted felon for office! A *convicted* felon.” She’s choosing to take her lumps now from the Alaska base to keep her countrywide credentials clean.

28102008

Aussie Puck Mule Hussein(15:30:54) :

Lurker “That one” Hussein Palin (12:19:00) :
OT
I saw this on Bill Moyers journal http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=_A_ma2h0idk
It was put together buy a guy named Mark Johnson for a documentary
called Playing for change Peace through music. It made me think of Barack.
It’s a version of the song “stand by me” done by musicians all over the world.
It also has the New Mexico Zuni Indians in it. Very moving.

Very 8)

I hope people will be offering their gifts to the long queues on Election Day.

28102008

Cynthia, TX(15:31:58) :

Senator McCain doesn’t like to talk about this plan all that much. But this morning, we were offered a stunning bit of straight talk – an October surprise – from his top economic advisor, who actually said that the health insurance people currently get from their employer is – and I quote – “way better” than the health care they would get if John McCain becomes President.

George Bush has agreed to play William Stryker, the.Christian fundamentalist politician who sees himself on a mission from God to destroy the mutant race through economic catastrophe, for the fourth installment of the movie franchise X-Men entitled “X-Men 4: Mavericks Down!,” . Stryker is teamed up with his sidekick Karl Rove who plays himself.

The good mutants are led by Wolverine played by the optimistic Joe Biden and the beautiful Storm played by Halle Berry (who is just too hot to be replaced by a career politician).

The militant mutants are led by cynical yet resolute leader Magneto played by Ralph Nader. Ted Stevens will replace Rebecca Romijn-Stamos as Mystique, Magneto’s loyal second-in-command.

As reported earlier, Governor Sarah Palin will replace Anna Paquin as the character Rogue. However, Sarah Palin’s character Rogue will no longer reunite with love interest Iceman played by Senator John McCain. Instead, Palin has asked for a rewrite of the script in which she “acts” to fall in love with a business associate of her husband Todd Palin.

Barack Obama will play the voice of the ghost of paraplegic telepath Professor Charles Xavier.

28102008

Vlad the I'm HUSSEIN Palin(15:36:50) :

I cannot recommend highly enough the book “Three Cups of Tea” about Greg Mortenson, an American who, as we speak, is doing wonderful things in Pakistan and Afghanistan, building schools, making great friends and learning about new cultures and showing another, gentler side of America. Scoop is he may be nominated for the Nobel Peace prize. His family lives in Montana and he spends half (at most) his time there and the rest of his time in the wilds of Pakistan and Afghanistan – an incredible human being who is spreading peace through education and friendship.

28102008

West Virginian aka Halter Grasshopper Palin(15:37:28) :

I guess the McCain camp is so desperate they have to throw out everything they can. They can’t find any bad things about Barack Obama so they just make crap up. I can’t stand to hear any of it or watch any of it. I just turn the channel when it comes on.

Glad Alaskans learned not to let the governor pick a Senator replacement. We need to adopt that in WV as well.

28102008

Vlad the I'm HUSSEIN Palin(15:40:21) :

Mr Cranky Pants McCain reminds me of Billy Goat Gruff who lived under the bridge. And if I hear “my friends” one more time, I will expedite his implosion!

28102008

DeMo(15:40:54) :

Here is the original LA Times article about Obama’s relationship with Khalidi. It’s up to each reader to come to their own conclusions, obviously.

I early voted today, demanded a paper ballot, and it took about 45 minutes.

I live in a solid red state, and voter turnout must be astronomical, because in 2004 there was no early voting and I only waited about 20-30 minutes on election day.

I am starting to get a little hopeful that Kansas might just go blue.

28102008

Aussie Puck Mule Hussein(15:44:46) :

from electoral-vote.com

“McCain has his work cut out for him this week. Will we see the incredible resurrection of Rev. Jeremiah Wright? McCain himself is supposedly against this although most of his base is pleading with him to bring out the big guns.
He may have good reasons for this though. It’s old news and Palin has an equally wacky preacher who Obama may bring up and that might get more coverage.😉

Also, Todd Palin belonged to a political party that wants Alaska to secede from the United States. With Palin talking about the “pro-America” parts of the country, McCain probably doesn’t want a national discussion this week about whether Alaska is one of those parts. So he may have a implicit understanding with Obama about keeping it a bit civil this week. Who knows?

I read the LA Times article; I see nothing wrong with his friendship. Since when do we have to be friends with only people who think like us? (Oh wait, I forgot- that is a Republican rule). I learn more, become more tolerant, more accepting, more educated from listening and taking to people who are not like me. Although I am obviously wonderful, too much of me can be- dare I say it?-boring. Limiting.

I’m sure the Repugs want to use this to increase their hate-filled messages. How sad for all of us.

28102008

Lock Pepper in honolulu(15:56:18) :

This is Elizabeth Hasselback commenting on Obama’s ad this week on the news channels:

“Obviously both sides are trying to run and create image. So if we use this as, so they both have funds and are creating an image, making sure their candidates are where they need to be seen, as they need to be. I find it completely then repulsive to then – if we want to look at spending – see how Barack Obama now is going to spend what $3 million on two thirty minute ads that are going to run this week.”

Is anyone else scratching their heads and saying, “what she say?.”
Me thinks Caribou Barbie’s syntax is rubbing off on her! Also–

28102008

Laurie(15:57:15) :

@DeMo…what I find frightening is this. If the McCain camp can put something like this out, and it makes someone like you take a second look…does it bode well for all the actual haters?

Come on. Obama taught at Columbia and this man was a co worker. Why would he NOT attend a going away party? Geesh…I hate to think what would happen if I had to second guess every single interaction in my life. Obama has run in circles of acadamia and politics the likes of which most of us never will. He will have and will still come into contact with all kinds of people.

McCain has also had dealings with this man. Have faith.

28102008

Deuce2 AL/Axe Diesel Hussein(15:57:47) :

I feel that I can not add to this thread. All I would want to say
has been covered. Therefore, I will take this opportunity to
introduce this “BREAKING NEWS STORY”.

At this time a psychological disorder is sweeping the U.S. and
several countries around the World. It has been diagnosed in
many adult individuals, as well as some children under the age
of18. Some of the many symptoms are listed below.
1) Restless WEB surfing.

2) Sleeplessness.

3) Making desperate phone calls to undecided voters.

4) Monetary donations to candidates (the likes of which has
never before been seen or recorded).
It is being refered to as P.T.E.A.D. or “Post Traumatic Election
Disorder”.
Doctors report that the illness is progressive in nature. At this
time, no treatment is available. Physicians investigating this matter
feel that the symptoms may begin to diminish after Nov. 4th, 2008.
A full cure is expected later in the month. The cure is said to be of
a verbal type. It is recommended that these words be pronounced
several times for many years in the future.

“PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”

BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA

28102008

Aussie Puck Mule Hussein(16:06:30) :

@Deep Blue in VA (12:51:43) :

Did you all read about one of the latest dirty tricks in Virginia? Some group is sending around flyers saying the General Assembly decided to extend voting, and that Republicans are supposed to vote on the 4th and Democrats on the 5th.

I feel certain MOST of my fellow Dems in the Commonwealth are smart enough to not fall for that.
———————————————-
It worked like a charm in the last election.

28102008

PepperzMom GA(16:08:47) :

Interesting blog from CG

Palin, Alone Aboard the Bus

Almost from the very beginning, the Palin pick created tension.

An armada of handlers descended on McCain’s running mate like the flying monkeys in The Wizard Of Oz . The day after the ticket made its debut, it was August 30 and the campaign staged a rally outside of Pittsburgh, on the field of a minor league baseball team called the Washington Wild Things. I remember seeing Tucker Eskew—an old Bush hand out of South Carolina who had never spent a day in McCain World until Nicolle Wallace recruited him to be Palin’s counselor—wandering around the premises, looking somewhat lost. He and Wallace took charge of schooling the Alaska governor on message discipline. Two days later at the GOP convention, an adviser watched them coach Palin on how to answer routine press questions and warned Steve Schmidt that she was being overly managed. Three weeks later, Wallace arranged for the interview with her former CBS colleague Katie Couric, which proved to be a disaster. Meanwhile, Palin’s debate prep was going miserably, to the point where Schmidt had to peel off from McCain (who was having his own challenges responding to the financial crisis) and join Nicolle’s husband Mark Wallace in simplifying Palin’s prep so as to avert catastrophe. The latter efforts resulted in what one senior adviser would describe to me with palpable relief as “a campaign-saving performance.”

I’m sympathetic to Eskew and Wallace, and not just because they’re decent people. They’ve held their tongue from leaking what a couple of McCain higher-ups have told me—namely, that Palin simply knew nothing about national and international issues. Which meant, as one such adviser said to me: “Letting Sarah be Sarah may not be such a good thing.” It’s a grim binary choice, but apparently it came down to whether to make Palin look like a scripted robot or an unscripted ignoramus. I was told that Palin chafed at being defined by her discomfiting performances in the Couric, Charlie Gibson, and Sean Hannity interviews. She wanted to get back out there and do more. Well, if you’re Eskew and Wallace, what do you say to that? Your responsibility isn’t the care and feeding of Sarah Palin’s ego; it’s the furtherance of John McCain’s quest for the presidency.

On the other hand, it had to be hard for Sarah Palin—who has achieved all she’s achieved with a highly personal touch—to take all this ridicule under an enforced gag order. After being introduced to the world as one of the “Team of Mavericks,” she’s admonished not to be one. She’s being called out by some McCainites for not cleaving to all of the senator’s positions. The Republicans who fawned over her superstar looks are now shocked—shocked!—to learn that her much-admired wardrobe has been purchased with RNC funds. I’ve heard from one well-placed source that McCain has snubbed her on one long bus ride aboard the Straight Talk Express, to the embarrassment of those sitting nearby. It has surely been implied to the governor that she should be eternally grateful to have been plucked from obscurity. And yet the high water mark of John McCain’s campaign for the presidency unquestionably began on September 3, when Palin gave her nomination speech—and ended precisely twelve days later, when McCain went off-script—I have that on the authority of the person who participated in the writing of said script—and told an audience that he still believed the fundamentals of the economy were strong.

More on all of this later. I have just informed my girlfriend Lara that I’m now a blogger. She stared at me for a long moment before saying quietly, “I don’t know you anymore.”
October 28, 2008

Lock Pepper in honolulu (15:56:18) :
This is Elizabeth Hasselback commenting on Obama’s ad this week on the news channels:
“Obviously both sides are trying to run and create image. So if we use this as, so they both have funds and are creating an image, making sure their candidates are where they need to be seen, as they need to be. I find it completely then repulsive to then – if we want to look at spending – see how Barack Obama now is going to spend what $3 million on two thirty minute ads that are going to run this week.”
——————————————–
She’s rubbish at math, too – it’s ONE thirty-minute ad for $6 million. And I can’t wait to see it!😀

28102008

Aussie Puck Mule Hussein(16:18:36) :

mvngfwd (12:59:58) :

Those that saw the “Obamasignwatch” from our mudpals in Oregon can visualize this based on that experience.
—————————————–
If that had happened at Obamasignwatch there would be a huge international outcry. Those cops would be stars!😀

28102008

LibertyLover(16:19:32) :

Good news, Mudflatters!

Obama is within two points of McCain in a recent poll over the weekend — 44 to 46. With one week to go, dare I hope that McCain’s home state ( my current one) will go to Obama? I can only hope that McCain continues his wingnuttiness…

Remember the Palin who’s voice was on robo calls in Alaska in the August primary–for Sean Parnell, against Don Young? But silently supportive of Stevens?

Remember the Palin who opposed the clean water initiative in the primary?
And did not support the clean elections initiative?
And whose administration keeps slaughtering wolves and their families?
And whose administration manipulated the wording on the ballot initiatives to achieve all the above agendas?

And yesterday regarding Stevens, the Palin that said the legal process needed to run its course? And today, advocating for a Stevens step-down, sort of, depending on the timing if it could be advantageous for Sarah Palin or Sean Parnell?

Remember the Palin who unabashedly accused a man of compassion and integrity of “pallin’ around with terrorists” and who has aligned herself with a campaign of calls telling people to vote for Obama by phone, or to vote for Republicans on Nov. 4 and Democrats on Nov. 5, and has includes more phone call and literature smears and lies about a multitude of topics and issues??

I remember and will never forget. And I am ashamed of what Palin’s Alaska has come to symbolize. Will Alaskans take a good look at themselves in the mirror this week and choose a better future?

Not lookin’ that good in Cecily. The many progressives isolating themselves and voting for third parties. The many at the other end of the spectrum spewing lies, and hate, and fear.

Okay, on the plus side, at least one person from Cecily is on the ground in Ohio and another in Pennsylvania. And 1000 postcards and/or notecards went out from Cecily to folks in Iowa. And some other bright moments.

So grateful for Mudflats…..thank you, thank you, thank you… for being here.

28102008

Deuce2 AL/Axe Diesel Hussein(16:23:18) :

Irishgirl aka puck mule.
I hope we will all be better then. I know that I will.

She also re-did her classic song THE HOMECOMING QUEEN’S GOT A GUN with new lyrics towards Palin. You can buy it at her website above. $2

28102008

mhrt oregon"steve"(16:25:31) :

Almost Native (15:50:41) :

@DeMo-

I read the LA Times article; I see nothing wrong with his friendship. Since when do we have to be friends with only people who think like us? (Oh wait, I forgot- that is a Republican rule). I learn more, become more tolerant, more accepting, more educated from listening and taking to people who are not like me. Although I am obviously wonderful, too much of me can be- dare I say it?-boring. Limiting.

I’m sure the Repugs want to use this to increase their hate-filled messages. How sad for all
———————————–
i tell my granddaughter that the world is like a box of crayons………….we come in diffrent colors and shapes

28102008

Deep Blue in VA(16:27:50) :

Hey, fawnskin, a Virginia resident here! I tried to answer you on the forum but I guess you left?

Gov. Crist has extend the Early voting hours here in Florida because turn out has been sooooooo great. KO just reported that McCain got mad at the Florida Governor and told him the he just cost him Florida. Yeahhhhhhhh! Anyway Gov. Crist responded and said it is about the people not an election. It is good to see a republican stand up and do the right thing.

Good on Florida, and all who helped, for the extended early voting hours.

28102008

Deep Blue in VA(16:33:52) :

I’m proud of Crist – even if he’s got an ulterior motive somewhere, it’s brave of him to buck the party.

And it’s sad that increasing access to the polls means going against a political party. So sad.

28102008

prettybrowntee(16:36:26) :

LibertyLover (16:19:32) :
_______________________________

Yeah 🙂 wingnuttiness LOL

28102008

roadrunnerruth(16:36:58) :

Palin has repeatedly said that anyone who pals around with a terrorist is a terrorist. So — anyone who pals around with a felon is a felon….. Right?

28102008

mhrt oregon"steve"(16:43:45) :

Aussie Puck Mule Hussein (16:11:44) :

Lock Pepper in honolulu (15:56:18) :
This is Elizabeth Hasselback commenting on Obama’s ad this week on the news channels:
“Obviously both sides are trying to run and create image. So if we use this as, so they both have funds and are creating an image, making sure their candidates are where they need to be seen, as they need to be. I find it completely then repulsive to then – if we want to look at spending – see how Barack Obama now is going to spend what $3 million on two thirty minute ads that are going to run this week.”
——————————————–
She’s rubbish at math, too – it’s ONE thirty-minute ad for $6 million. And I can’t wait to see it!

———————————–
my gosh she does sound just like her………….a flood of words

28102008

John* The Pitbull Wrangler*(16:44:06) :

What scares me is that Palin is now trying to fix her image so she can run in 2012. What I see is a chance for all Alaskans to make sure that doesn’t happen. If she is elected out of office, she may not have a chance to do what she wants in 2012.

Steven sayin’ “Not my massage chair. Just borrowing this massage chair (for seven years and it’s still in my house.)

Palin probably grateful for the distraction of her own “abuse of power” ethics violation??

28102008

Deep Blue in VA(16:45:35) :

Forget about not letting Palin get re-elected – I hope Alaskans make sure she gets recalled!

28102008

Crust Scramble - SouthGA(16:45:37) :

roadrunnerruth (16:36:58) :

Palin has repeatedly said that anyone who pals around with a terrorist is a terrorist. So — anyone who pals around with a felon is a felon….. Right?
————-
if a=b=c, a=c

—————-
John* The Pitbull Wrangler* (16:44:06) :

What scares me is that Palin is now trying to fix her image so she can run in 2012. What I see is a chance for all Alaskans to make sure that doesn’t happen. If she is elected out of office, she may not have a chance to do what she wants in 2012.
———-
She can’t fix her image – way too much has gotten out of the (Saks) bag.

28102008

prettybrowntee(16:46:45) :

Deep Blue in VA (16:33:52) :
_________________________________

You are soooo right. He probably knows it is over for McCain but I must say he has been running from McGrumpy since McCain started this Terrorist thing. He was supposed to Campaign for McCain last month when McAngry came to florida. Gov Crist went to Disney world on that day instead. LOL

An email I received today – remember the video about the election being decided on one vote?

Dear CNNBC viewer,
Wow. Thanks to people like you, this nonvoter video has now been sent to over 6.3 million friends. It’s going out to more than 30 new people per second.

Research shows that this kind of social “nudging” is extremely effective. So we’re aiming to reach 10 million people before Election Day—only a few days away.

Can you help by sending this video to a few more friends today?

http://www.cnnbcvideo.com/taf.html
Studies show that by far the best way to get people out to vote is to convince them that (a) everyone else is voting, and (b) everyone will know if they don’t vote. This video does both—with a smile (or smirk, in some cases).

It takes just seconds to send, and it could be the thing that actually pushes a friend of yours to the polls.

Well done, Mudflatters! We are almost there, it’s looking good, Obama is going to do it. Eight years of Republican madness are about to end. Two mavericks is two too many. So many of us — all you Mudflatters have been working for this — keep at it for one more week, then it’s Party Time.

Wow…. KO called her a fraud. Nice. And about time.
—————–
I saw that, but what took him so long? AKM’s been saying that forever!

28102008

antiAnti(17:04:21) :

McCain campaign “mystified” by the $150,000 clothesgate expenditures. Hmm, so this is supposed to make the electorate trust them with the US Treasury. I’d be laughing if it wasn’t so scary.

28102008

fawnskin hussein mudpuppy(17:05:27) :

deep blue and ohio sue (teegee…that rhymes)
i’ve left messages in your inbox in the forum

28102008

Glenn2008(17:06:57) :

Aoi (12:23:22) :

“Can you serve as a senator from a jail cell?”

The answer is yes – as long as you are a maverick. This would be a clever way of saving taxpayers money.

Perhaps a governor could do it too?… Besides the mansion, imagine all the savings on clothes, per diem etc.

It takes a true maverick though. This will be his measure.

28102008

Deep Blue in VA(17:08:21) :

Hi Fawnskin – I just checked and I have 0 messages. My login name for the forum is DeepBlue. Look forward to hearing from you…

28102008

Rae(17:16:54) :

So I see the choice for Alaska to be either Stevens the crook or an ambitious Palin if Begich and Palin don’t win on Nov 4. That sucks Alaska.

Stevens could run out the clock on appeals while still serving because the Senate can’t eject him until the appeals process is exhausted. Stevens could then be in the Senate for the next 2-3 years and his spot be ready for Palin’s ambitions.

Or, if Steven resigns after he is elected then the governor would appoint a temporary replacement to cover the seat, then a special election would take place for a permanent replacement and if the special election couldn’t be held the replacement would serve until the next general election. I can see Palin making a wuss appointment then running for the seat in the special election. She’s certainly got enough brass to do that.

28102008

Taupe Armageddon Palin(17:17:23) :

rachel just announced she’s interviewing Barack on Thursday. Wooooo Hoooooo!!!!!!!!

28102008

rf11 in FL(17:22:07) :

Good evening, all! I just got home from a long day at work. Guess what? Obama AND Biden are coming to Ft. Lauderdale tomorrow for a rally, and we’re going and taking our two daughters! I’m so excited!

It is an inside venue, but I expect the crowd to be unbelievable. Ft. Lauderdale is in the heart of Blue Florida.

28102008

NoCalGal(17:22:50) :

mvngfwd (12:14:29) :

OT- Just heard from a good friend about his buddy in Coral Springs, FL who caught his Obama sign stealers on hidden camera. Here’s the kicker, it was the local police! He said you can see the patrol car roll up and then the snatchers came up and took his sign, not knowing there was a camera on it. I told him to get me the clip and that we, the mudflat brigade, would get it out to the Universe. If this pans out it will not be a very good day for those patrol officers. I will keep you posted….

One humble suggestion

UNVELEEEEVABLE (princess bride voice)… you HAVE to get this to AKM and then to MSNBC or the MSM.. this is completely illegal!!

then you should complain to your local city government!

28102008

rf11 in FL(17:29:52) :

Here’s a column/blog by Robert Draper about Palin and the McCain campaign.

“I’m sympathetic to Eskew and Wallace, and not just because they’re decent people. They’ve held their tongue from leaking what a couple of McCain higher-ups have told me—namely, that Palin simply knew nothing about national and international issues. Which meant, as one such adviser said to me: “Letting Sarah be Sarah may not be such a good thing.” It’s a grim binary choice, but apparently it came down to whether to make Palin look like a scripted robot or an unscripted ignoramus. I was told that Palin chafed at being defined by her discomfiting performances in the Couric, Charlie Gibson, and Sean Hannity interviews. She wanted to get back out there and do more. Well, if you’re Eskew and Wallace, what do you say to that? Your responsibility isn’t the care and feeding of Sarah Palin’s ego; it’s the furtherance of John McCain’s quest for the presidency.

Ha!!! Are you kidding. Sarah Palin would NEVER support a Democrat. She wants to get rid of Ted to hold the seat in Republican hands.

I’m really wondering if/how could/is it possible for the Good People of Alaska to actually keep him in office? I don’t get that one at all.

28102008

Let'sGetReal for "That One"(17:53:48) :

I guess Jesus Christ was not a believer since he ministered to the sinners, and hung out with tax collectors and prostitutes!

I wish these so called Christians would really look in the mirror!

28102008

Aeroentropy aka Bash Budweiser Palin(17:55:49) :

Arianna (16:57:13) :
Well done, Mudflatters! We are almost there, it’s looking good, Obama is going to do it. Eight years of Republican madness are about to end. Two mavericks is two too many. So many of us — all you Mudflatters have been working for this — keep at it for one more week, then it’s Party Time.

Party time, yes… but then the real work begins, of healing, of organizing, of getting done what needs to happen. It’s not over on the 4th!!

28102008

victoria2dc(18:06:12) :

OT- Just heard from a good friend about his buddy in Coral Springs, FL who caught his Obama sign stealers on hidden camera. Here’s the kicker, it was the local police! He said you can see the patrol car roll up and then the snatchers came up and took his sign, not knowing there was a camera on it. I
******************************************************************************
Yes… removing or destoying a campaign sign is a serious crime and if their boss is doing his/her job, they will be charged! Friggin’ cops. Please tell your friend to take the video in and file a complaint. That’s really something, huh?

28102008

DeMo(18:07:40) :

Almost Native (15:50:41) said:

I read the LA Times article; I see nothing wrong with his friendship. Since when do we have to be friends with only people who think like us? (Oh wait, I forgot- that is a Republican rule). I learn more, become more tolerant, more accepting, more educated from listening and taking to people who are not like me. Although I am obviously wonderful, too much of me can be- dare I say it?-boring. Limiting.

I’m sure the Repugs want to use this to increase their hate-filled messages. How sad for all.
________________________________________________________

I’m almost with you 100%. The more people I know with differing views, the more I learn about the world. However, for me, there are some people who aren’t worth knowing. It’s a personal decision whom we choose to have in our lives. Khalidi, who is decidedly anti-Israel, is not someone with whom I would care to spend much time. I’m pretty moderate when it comes to the Middle East and I crave the voices of other moderates. I think there are enough fanatics whose voices fill the air and drown out more reasoned perspectives.

I respect Obama’s choice, but it can still concern me. I take comfort in the fact that I think he’s a brilliant man and is able to listen to many viewpoints without having them become his own.

He’s got my vote, for sure, but I don’t have to turn a blind eye when something concerns me. It doesn’t comfort me that McCain gave a lot of dollars to Khalidi’s organization. For me, one man’s poor choice doesn’t mitigate the other’s.

Peace will only come to that region when the moderate voices finally drown out those of fanatics on all sides. I truly hope and pray that Obama, who I believe to be a man of integrity and moderation, will bring his voice to the negotiation table and employ a strategy to help the Palestinians and Israelis find a way towards peace, a peace I think both populations want desperately.

BTW, sorry if I missed the announcement, there’s a new thread up. 109 posts last I looked.

28102008

sauerkraut aka Palins MooseCandy(18:16:18) :

Aye.

Ted Stevens, the end of an error.

28102008

bill(18:24:15) :

Madeline Allbright, tonight, on Rachel Maddow’s show dismissed Sarah Palin’s “second” misquote/lie that Sen. Obama was not supported by her (Ms. Allbright). She went on to explain that Sarah was wrong and went on to rally support for many of his ideals.

This is my main worry (even as remote as it could possibly be) – If McCain wins this election, and if he becomes unable to fulfill his tenure…then Sarah Palin steps into the President’s seat…what would she do, how would she guide this huge country…which could only be based on her past performance in Alaska? I submit she would fire his current cabinet; then, because she has the POWER, (and this is so very important), she would have all of her “home town cronies” experienced or not appointed to her new cabinet. She might/probably run the United States just as she and past Alaskan politicians have run the state of Alaska in the past (no offense Alaskans). Think about this for a moment… is this possibility SCARY or what?

28102008

eagle river ak(18:25:26) :

My goodness, just heard on KTUU Sarah throwing Ted under the bus. Now, I think he’s guilty but he has the right to appeal and the last time I checked, he doesn’t have to resign. Maybe Sarah should think about resigning if she’s found guilty of ethics violations, again! Or if there’s guilt in her per diem $ or travel $ for the girls, or if she doesn’t pay taxes on those new RNC clothes of hers. No, I’d bet she’d say she has the right to stay on the job she was elected for and then appeal. I’d say Ted has that same right.

You know what I really think? I think she wants to appoint herself to his job. I think she actually wants him to keep on running and THEN step down. Then she’ll appoint herself and then run to keep it (that is if that’s really what the state law allows, see today’s ADN for Tom Kizzia’s explanation of the confusion about what to do).

Anyway, yep, she knows she’s not going to be VP, so she wants to take Ted’s job. She’s just devious enough and certainly anyone who’d so blatantly stomp on the person who helped make her career is that devious.

This is a call to all Alaskans, get the vote out for Begich. If he wins, that’s one route to national power shut off for Sarah.

28102008

sauerkraut aka Palins MooseCandy(18:34:25) :

“The Senate ethics committee says it won’t do anything until the criminal case runs it course.”

As we saw with the Keating/McCain scandal, the so-called ethics committee is pretty frikken useless. It is used to cover-up acts of inpropriety rather than enforce rules of ethics. What the current crew really means is that they intend to do nothing. They probably figure that since Stevens is 84 that he’ll pass on before they have to actually act. And then, once he dies, they’ll say no action isneeded because he is dead.

btw, if Palin wants a senate seat, look for her to run against Lisa M. Then she can again use her “fighting corrupt politician maverick” schtick to try to elbow her way in. Hopefully, she’ll get her inflated boobies handed to her. Yeah, you betcha (wink, wink).

28102008

Ed L.(19:09:15) :

McCain has a long standing loathing for Stevens … this is no surprise. It basically goes back to the issue of earmarks. Stevens ran the show on earmarks in the Senate, and McCain was unable to rein him in, and they constantly butted heads.

28102008

Krystal(19:53:13) :

Hey, can someone tell me what Obbie was getting at with his joemamma comment being a slander against hispanics? I love him, but he completely lost me on that one. Any helpful hints?

I found it this morning and showed it top people all day. Brilliant isn’t it?
Moving as hell.
Those bud guys took on Freddie and Fannie, Wall Street, McCain, Bush, Katrina, Iraq, Healthcare and had me actually rolling at 6 AM.
True.

28102008

Palinese-challenged(21:03:41) :

Even “RedState.com” is calling for the defeat of Ted Stevens and Don Young.

Here are a few juicy quotes:

“good conscience compels us to advise Alaskans not to vote for Ted Stevens for Senate or Don Young for the at-large House seat in Alaska. We leave it to the individual voter whether to abstain or take the step of voting affirmatively for Mark Begich, the Democrat mayor of Anchorage, and candidate for the U.S. Senate, or for Ethan Berkowitz for the at-large House seat in Alaska.”

and

“Ted Stevens and Don Young have been a pox on the Republican house for too long – too addicted to the pork barrel, too fast and loose with ethics. Stevens’ conviction in federal court today is the exclamation pointon an era in Republican politics in general and Alaska politics in particular that needs to end (and which Gov. Sarah Palin has been battling to clean up). Republicans need to clean our own house. Washington cannot too soon see the end of Stevens and Young.”

Of course the Palin fans on this site won’t buy the last bit, but it is good to see some republicans wanting to get rid of some of their home-grown corruption.

“Palin” and “statesman-like” in the same sentence? Now I’ve truly seen it all.

28102008

vena45(22:32:34) :

I just hope and pray that McWitch won’t win come this Nov 4th. I get the feeling Obama will be in good hands with God. I truly believe the wall street melt down was a warning sign from God telling the American pple that if we don’t stop being bigots and full of hatred in selecting the right person for presidency this time around, there will be greater consequences for this nation as a whole.

28102008

vena45(22:55:58) :

I just got done watching “Nightline” on ABC news about skinheads hating on blacks and the two guys that plotted to assasinate Obama were actually from a group called SWA which stands for “Social White Alliances”. Wow, the story was very interesting knowing how much hate is out there against someone of different color! I’m appalled by this because here we have pple of hate like skinheads who call themselves the next generation of Hitler and neo-nazi’s are the reason why McCain and Palin shouldn’t be inciting more hate and influencing those who already hate to get the idea of plotting to assinate in anyway just because they think if Obama wins this will be the end of the world. That’s why we need to really change things in America by voting Obama as president to stop this nonsense once and for all!

28102008

vena45(22:56:58) :

I just got done watching “Nightline” on ABC news about skinheads hating on blacks and the two guys that plotted to assasinate Obama were actually from a group called SWA which stands for “Social White Alliances”. Wow, the story was very interesting knowing how much hate is out there against someone of different color! I’m appalled by this because here we have pple of hate like skinheads who call themselves the next generation of Hitler and neo-nazi’s are the reason why McCain and Palin shouldn’t be inciting more hate and influencing those who already hate to get the idea of plotting to assinate in anyway just because they think if Obama wins this will be the end of the world. That’s why we need to really change things in America by voting Obama as president to stop this nonsense once and for all!

29102008

knikgoose HUSSEIN!! justaskin(00:02:14) :

I am so disgusted with the RNC dirty plays. How low can you go!
Hopefully, once this is over and SP has to face the music in Alaska, it will be brought to light just how much of that house in Wasilla was paid for by BP/Conoco funds, etc.
Then, she can join Ted, once again.
I can hear that paper shredder from my house.

29102008

LadyPeralta(01:48:35) :

Just submitted this on Digg- Great Work as always

29102008

Angela(05:05:20) :

These are some thoughts that any person with critical thinking skills has considered. What about you? IT always say that for those that think a minority candidate does not have to be significantly better than white candidates to get any position, this presidential race is a perfect example of it.
What if things were switched around? Think about it…

Would the country’s collective point of view be different?

Ponder the following:

What if the Obama had paraded five children across the stage, including
a three month old infant and an unwed, pregnant teenage daughter?
We all know how the world would’ve reacted to THAT ONE!!

What if John McCain was a former president of the Harvard Law Review?
What if Barack Obama finished fifth from the bottom of his graduating
class?
That’s what most people wanted to see.

What if McCain had only married once, and Obama was a divorcee?

What if Obama was the candidate who left his first wife after a severe
disfiguring car accident, when she no longer measured up to his standards?

What if Obama had met his second wife in a bar and had a long affair while
he was still married?
The media would’ve had a field day with that one, too.

What if Michelle Obama was the wife who not only became addicted to pain
killers but also acquired them illegally through her charitable
organization?

What if Cindy McCain graduated from Harvard?

What if Obama had been a member of the Keating Five?
(The Keating Five were five United States Senators accused of corruption
in 1989, igniting a major political scandal as part of the larger Savings
and Loan crisis of the late 1980s and early 1990s.)

What if McCain was a charismatic, eloquent speaker?
What if Obama couldn’t read from a teleprompter?

What if Obama was the one who had military experience that included
Discipline Problems and a record of Crashing Seven Planes?!!!!!!!!
Are you SERIOUS?!!

What if Obama was the one who was known to display publicly, on many
occasions, a serious anger management problem?

What if Michelle Obama’s family had made their money from beer
distribution?

What if the Obama had adopted a white child?
HMMM!!!

You could easily add to this list. If these questions reflected reality,
do you really believe the election numbers would be as close as they are?

This is what racism does. It covers up, rationalizes and minimizes
positive qualities in one candidate and emphasizes negative qualities in
another when there is a color difference.

Education isn’t everything, but this is about the two highest offTWO HIGHEST OFFICES in the land as well as our standing in the world.

You make the call, I decided to add another one McCain says he has been tested, In the military their is no test involved you are trained to follow orders no mater what the cost to life and limb. You do as your told or you find yourself busting rocks for 20 at Fort Leavenworth, KS.